Rural businesses ready to help drive Scotland’s economic growth

Press Release

Rural businesses are ready, willing, and able to support the Scottish Government’s ambition to grow Scotland’s economy during the new parliamentary term, Scottish Land & Estates (SLE) has said.

The rural business organisation was responding to the Programme for Government, outlined by First Minister John Swinney today.

The First Minister placed economic growth at the heart of the government’s plans and announced a series of measures, including work towards a Rural Renewal Bill intended to support rural businesses and communities.

Stephen Young, Director of Policy at Scottish Land & Estates, said: “The First Minister’s statement provides grounds for optimism that the Scottish Government intends to create a more supportive environment for investment and economic growth.

“Rural businesses have too often faced complex and burdensome legislation that has restricted their ability to invest, innovate and create jobs. A renewed emphasis on enabling growth across every part of Scotland is therefore welcome.

“The commitment to ensure that growth reaches every postcode must now be translated into practical measures that recognise the distinct challenges and opportunities facing rural Scotland.

“Rural businesses are ready to play their part. With the right support and policy environment, they can create jobs, attract investment, strengthen local supply chains and sustain thriving communities.

“We will need to see how these commitments develop throughout the parliamentary term, but the Rural Renewal Bill presents a valuable opportunity to remove barriers, address long-standing rural challenges and unlock economic potential.

“We do, however, have serious concerns about the proposed food price cap and its possible impact on primary producers and Scotland’s food and drink supply chain. It is not clear how it will be possible to strike a balance between supporting consumers and ensuring that farmers, food producers and retailers receive a fair and sustainable return.

"Similarly, we would have liked to have seen a clearer commitment to reform of non-domestic rates given the acute pressures the current system is placing on rural businesses. Addressing this must be a priority if the government wants to create the conditions for sustainable economic growth.

“We look forward to engaging constructively with ministers to ensure the detail behind these proposals delivers meaningful and lasting benefits for rural businesses and communities.”